The Week Ahead

Updated 7:01 am, Monday, April 29, 2013

Spring is here, legislators are back at the Capitol, and an annual tradition is blooming. We're talking about political fundraisers, not tulips.

There's been plenty of chatter among lawmakers about changes to the campaign finance system in the weeks following the arrests of Sen. Malcolm Smith and Assemblyman Eric Stevenson. Gov. Andrew Cuomo and many other Democrats favor a system of public financing for campaigns, but even as they argue against money in politics, the fundraisers grind on.

How much is a standard donation? This week, $1,000 would get you some time with Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver during a Monday evening event at the State Room, or the chance to hang out with Deputy Senate Democratic Leader Mike Gianaris on Tuesday at the University Club. Senate Republican Leader Dean Skelos will hold an event on Thursday at the New York Sheraton, with the mandatory $1,500 contributions going to the Senate Republican Campaign Committee.

Monday

The Assembly convenes at 2 p.m., the Senate at 3 p.m.

It's Adirondack Day: there will be exhibits as well as a "Taste of the Adirondacks" event featuring music, maple goodies and Adirondack-brewed adult beverages. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Well of the Legislative Office Building.